This award celebrates a heritage craftsperson who has made an outstanding contribution to working with wood within the previous 12 months (since 2 March 2025). It recognises a contribution that is far beyond the ordinary, based on a proven dedication to a particular woodworking skill. We expect this to be someone who demonstrates the highest level of craft skill and is held in high regard amongst their peers.
The award is open to practitioners of any craft that uses wood as its primary material. Examples include (but are not limited to) carpentry, furniture making and wood carving, as well as such crafts as wheelwrighting, boatbuilding, timber framing, marquetry, guitar making, etc.
Anyone, including the maker themselves, can nominate for this award. Finalists will be expected to attend the high-profile Winners’ Reception in November 2026.